Conference choice 3-Save a life: Global Facts and Prevention of Suicide This is

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Conference choice 3-Save a life: Global Facts and Prevention of Suicide

This is a new topic that I am introducing in this class, I have previously introduced the case studies on eating disorders across cultures. Most people are surprised when they find out that eating disorders are in fact, more prevalent than one would imagine-and also show up in more ethnicities, than one would be lead to believe from media reports. A second phenomenon which has recently been a cause for concern globally is the tragedy of suicide. These facts, also, tend to cause surprise and come alarm, and are being taken very seriously by agencies across the world, including the World Health Organization. Recent events have again brought the issue into the spotlight, with the cases of the late brilliant artist, Mr. Robin Williams, Ms. L’Wren Scott(case recently covered in Psychology today, Death by Design appears below in case studies), and the countless other persons who never are mentioned in the news, but whose precious lives were cut short tragically. With utmost respect for the memories of the departed, as well as their families, and in the hope of preventing further loss, I present to you this conference choice.

Alarming statistics: Every 40 seconds, globally, a person attempts suicide.  The World Health Organization(WHO) has, this year, put together a report related to this, showing suicide rates across nations, analysis of causes and prevention helplines and warning signs. If you look at the material you will find that contrary to what most people think, persons planning suicide actually do present with some warning signs.

This is a sensitive topic, especially in the light of recent events in the news, but it must be spoken of, here are a few facts:

I am providing a link to the WHO report, and here is a short video by WHO relating to the topic.

WHO short informational video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NVBMfdP1Ww&list=UU07-dOwgza1IguKA86jqxNA

The global report may be found here:

http://www.who.int/mental_health/suicide-prevention/en/

Instructions: Check the WHO video, the report from above, and share what you think is the most important fact that you would like the world’s public to know. Next, look on the internet for possible case studies(some possible links are mentioned below, similar to our eating disorders cases as well). Report what you found here. And last but not least, mention at least 2 possible warning signals and 2 suicide prevention strategies/treatment(survivors, families, or both). Who knows, maybe one day you can recognize the symptoms- and save a life!

Possible case study resources(you can use one of these, or find another one on the net, my only request is that the case study portrays the persons involved in a respectful and empathetic fashion, not judgmental:

http://www.allianceofhope.org/blog_/beyond-surviving/

http://www.allianceofhope.org/alliance-of-hope-for-suic/community-forum.html

http://www.thereasons.ca/stories.php

http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/201410/death-design

For those who may be going into counseling, this doctor’s report for clinicians in the wake of Mr. William’s tragic end points out some important points for clinicians, can also be incorporated into the suicide prevention/treatment strategies as an option.

http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2014.9b23

Another post by Dr E. Ducharne from the Your Mind Your Body site maintained by APA

http://www.yourmindyourbody.org/robin-williams-death-stop-suicide/

Explanation / Answer

Save A Life : Global Facts & Prevention Of Suicide

From a population health perspective, death by suicide in the overall population is rare compared to common causes of death such as heart disease and cancer. At the same time, these statistics do not reflect the prevalence of suicidal feelings thoughts and actions in the general population. The reality is that most people at one point in their lives have suicidal feelings and thoughts.

Due to the many different factors that lead people to suicide, the prevention of suicide involves multi faced responses. The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists a series of promotion , prevention , intervention and other activities ranging from healthy families and homes in which to bring up the children and youth , through the successful treatment of mental illness. In addition Who stresses that education and awareness raising about suicides and its prevention are essential elements insuicide prevention strategies.

Warning signs of suicide:-

Suicide does not have one single cause. Certain factors like substance abuse and untreated depression can lead to higher risk of suicide just having robust social circle can help protect one from suicide . Warning signs are indicators that a person may be in acute danger and may urgently need help.

1. Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself

2. Talking about being a burden to others.

3. Displaying extreme mood swings

4. Withdrawing oneself from activities, family and friends

5. Looking for a way to kill oneself

Suicide Prevention

1. Structured counselling and psychotherapy

2. Therapeutic recreational therapy that improves mood

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